How to find the right yoga for you

With hundreds of yoga styles around how do you know if the option you’ve picked is best for you? It can be confusing for beginners and even for seasoned practitioners. But, by asking yourself a few key questions you can find yoga methods and teachers that challenge, inspire and help you reach your health and fitness goals. 

Why Finding Your Yoga Style Matters

It’s important to find yoga classes that resonate with you, and more importantly, classes that you enjoy! If you don’t enjoy going to class then it will be tough to motivate yourself to keep practising and learning. There is no right or wrong. Some people may try and persuade you that their preferred yoga is the best and only method to try. But, the best class for you is the one that makes you feel good - different teaching methods and styles work for different people.

Your needs and interests can develop over time so there’s nothing wrong with branching out and trying new classes. You are the best judge of what your body and mind need to feel healthy and strong. New physical and mental challenges can make us feel energised and engaged so don’t be scared to mix things up. You may thrive on dynamic flowing yoga when you’re feeling on top of your game. But, when you find your stress levels rising, a calming, meditative class could help you get your balance back.

Think about why you practise

Take a moment to consider why you want to practise. Are you bubbling with restless energy? Have you been feeling achey after hours sitting in front of a screen? Perhaps you’re looking for a bit of big picture spiritual inspiration. There are many reasons people come to practise and taking a moment to think about yours will help you find a class that makes you feel good.

Be honest about what works for you

Next, consider your preferences and needs. Do you thrive on personalized attention or are you motivated by a community vibe? Do you like to be pushed or do you respond to a more compassionate approach? Then be honest with yourself about possible physical, financial, and time limitations.

Shop around for your yoga style

The truth is, you may not even know what you’re looking for until you start trying on styles, but you’ll know when you’ve found the yoga that’s right for you. Take notice of how your body feels during and after class. The pace and level of should feel challenging but not overtaxing, and you should feel more relaxed, open, and grounded in your body after class, not more stressed and disconnected. Pay attention to the emotional and mental shifts that your feel during the class, too. Notice what inspires you, or whether you’ve checked out and lost interest. The best indicator of a good fit is that you’ll want to take the class again.

You’ll know you’re in the right yoga class when...

Finding the yoga practice that works for you has as much to do with the individual teacher as it does the style he or she teaches. Next time you go to class, see if you notice that:

·       You feel safe and supported. Class warms up at an appropriate pace, and the teacher has clear command of the room and acknowledges new students.

·       You can hear and understand the teacher’s instructions.

·       The teacher adapts their teaching to the ability and skill level of the students present

·       The teacher respects your physical limitations but also help you move outside your comfort zone in a way that feels safe

·       The teacher addresses everyone, from the most adept practitioner to the complete newbie

·       You feel comfortable to approach the teacher and ask questions or share concerns

·       You feel inspired, either during or after class—or, better yet, both!